By Bader Abbas Alhelaibi*
On September 7, 2024, the Kingdom of Bahrain joined the Federative Republic of Brazil to celebrate a significant milestone: the anniversary of Brazil’s declaration of independence in 1822 and the beginning of a new era for the Brazilian people.
Brazil’s journey to independence is a testament to the enduring spirit and determination of its people. Since 1822, Brazil has evolved and developed significantly, reflecting its unique historical and cultural path. During this time, as the largest and most populous country in South America, Brazil has continued to demonstrate leadership and resilience on the international stage.
Over the years, Brazil has made remarkable progress in economic and social development, emerging as a major global economic player and contributing significantly to global economic growth and stability. Meanwhile, the country’s success in hosting the 2014 FIFA World Cup and the 2016 Summer Olympics—the first of their kind in South America—highlighted its role as a global cultural and sporting hub.
The bilateral relationship between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Federative Republic of Brazil is marked by mutual respect, friendship, and a commitment to building stronger ties across various domains. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1974, Bahrain and Brazil have worked together to deepen their partnership, highlighted by numerous high-level visits and cooperation agreements.
In recent years, our two nations have made great efforts to strengthen cooperation and deepen their ties. The opening of the Brazilian Embassy in Bahrain marked a significant step in enhancing our bilateral relations. Furthermore, regular dialogue, including virtual meetings and participation in economic forums, underscores our shared commitment to addressing global challenges and exploring new opportunities for collaboration. Additionally, the signing of several memorandums of understanding has reinforced cooperation in areas such as defense, education and cultural exchange.
Official visits between our countries have been important for mutual understanding and cooperation. The recent visit of a Brazilian parliamentary delegation to Bahrain in February 2024 and the visit of a Bahraini parliamentary delegation, led by the chairman of the Council of Representatives, to Brazil in June 2024 exemplify the importance of parliamentary diplomacy in strengthening our bilateral ties.
The Kingdom of Bahrain values its partnership with Brazil and remains committed to expanding our relationship across multiple domains. We have concluded numerous agreements and memorandums of understanding, including those related to air services, defense cooperation, and cultural exchange, reflecting our shared commitment to broadening our cooperation in various sectors such as trade, investment, education, and security.
Brazil’s robust economy, characterized by its vast natural resources and diverse industrial base, complements Bahrain’s vision of economic diversification and innovation. Our trade relations are strong, with Bahrain exporting products such as polyethylene and aluminum alloys to Brazil and importing a variety of Brazilian products, from agricultural goods to industrial tools. This economic partnership highlights the potential for mutual growth and benefit.
As we celebrate Brazil’s Independence, the Kingdom of Bahrain reaffirms its commitment to strengthening our bonds of friendship and cooperation. We look forward to exploring new opportunities for collaboration that will benefit both nations and contribute to global peace, stability, and prosperity.
I extend my warmest congratulations to the government and people of Brazil. May the country continue to prosper and develop, in a spirit of independence, determination, and unity. The Kingdom of Bahrain joins Brazil in celebrating this historic occasion and looks forward to many more years of fruitful partnership.
*Bader Abbas Alhelaibi is ambassador of Bahrain to Brazil
The views expressed in the articles are the responsibility of the authors.
Translated by Guilherme Miranda
